Ex-Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party
president Col Kizza Besigye has warned government that the "rampant
militias" which have continued to cause havoc among the opposition
politicians and "innocent Ugandans" might destabilize the peace of the
country in the coming future.

Addressing journalists at a press conference by pressure group For
God and My Country (4GC) at their offices in Nakasero, Besigye said the
vicious attacks by these groups might become a problem to government in
future.

He cited the Kiboko Squad and stone-wielding youth who have been
involved in destabilizing opposition activities in the presence of
police.

"Somalia is facing a problem of militias who also resulted from the
similar groups like those in Uganda, while Congo has warlords everywhere
fighting for power."

He said it is the duty of Police to enforce law and order among the citizens of the country according to the constitution.

Besigye condemned the Kawempe actions where some group of youth hit
his car and beat up other elected area opposition leaders who had turned
up for the rally.

"We managed to identify these people and we have their photos
committing these acts in the presence of some police chief. It is very
unfortunate that everything happened in the presence of the area police
chief, Siraje Bakaleke and nothing was done," he noted.

If government is not careful, he warned, Uganda might end up into another failed state.

"Militarization of politics is dangerous. We have our army and police
force who can contain the situation without use of these
unconstitutional groups," he added.

He also condemned the actions of policemen who violate people's rights, saying they are only mandated to enforce law and order.

Besigye also called on the Police Chief, Kale Kayihura to come out
and clarify to Ugandans on allegations that there was a new rebel group
in the country because, he said, it might bring about unrest.

"As concerned Ugandans, we are confused because the minister of
defense denied presence of any rebel group - which is a contradicting
statement," said the former army man.

The coordinator of 4GC, Mathias Mpuuga said following the incident in
Kawempe, they resolved to institute criminal charges against police
bosses, Bakaleka (Kawempe), Michael Mugabi ( Kampala North RPC), Julius
Gobolo (Old Kampala DPC) and Sam Omala (in-charge operations) over abuse
of office and violation of human rights.

"We have got evidence and witnesses on this matter that these police
chiefs are behind these 'militias' who keep on disrupting our
activities," said Mpuuga.

"We are also going to petition the parliamentary committee on human
rights and the Human Rights Commission over the continued abuse of human
rights."